What do you think?
Rate this book
Shadows and Secrets : The Pataliputra Conspiracy
Circa 403-404 CE. The Gupta Empire has reached its zenith under its greatest ruler yet, Maharaja Chandragupta II Vikramaditya. But with glory comes mischief. Mahakavi Kalidasa, the great poet-dramatist and one of the Navaratnas of the kingdom, heads the state intelligence network to weed out threats, internal and external.
On the eve of the annual Buddhist procession, a spate of shocking murders casts a dark shadow on the glorious city of Pataliputra, with corpses of unidentified foreigners and the city’s social and administrative elite turning up one by one. Who is behind these killings and why?
To crack the mystery, the Mahakavi enlists the help of Shaunaka, one of his unofficial spies.
As the keenly observant but idealistic guptachara pursues his secret mission, the young man gets a taste of real-world affairs-deception, religious fanaticism and a 100-year-old secret.
Faced with more questions than answers, there is one thought on everyone’s mind-what is going on in Pataliputra?
“Harini Srinivasan brings the Gupta era alive in an immersive way… delivers a truly engrossing historical fiction.”
– Nandini Sengupta
“A brilliant story of a perceptive spy trying to unravel fragments of a conspiracy.”
– Koral Dasgupta
On the eve of the annual Buddhist procession, a spate of shocking murders casts a dark shadow on the glorious city of Pataliputra, with corpses of unidentified foreigners and the city’s social and administrative elite turning up one by one. Who is behind these killings and why?
To crack the mystery, the Mahakavi enlists the help of Shaunaka, one of his unofficial spies.
As the keenly observant but idealistic guptachara pursues his secret mission, the young man gets a taste of real-world affairs-deception, religious fanaticism and a 100-year-old secret.
Faced with more questions than answers, there is one thought on everyone’s mind-what is going on in Pataliputra?
“Harini Srinivasan brings the Gupta era alive in an immersive way… delivers a truly engrossing historical fiction.”
– Nandini Sengupta
“A brilliant story of a perceptive spy trying to unravel fragments of a conspiracy.”
– Koral Dasgupta
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2024
3 people want to read
About the author
Harini Srinivasan
15 books22 followersHarini Srinivasan is the author of a historical detective novel, The Curse of Anuganga, Tree, the recently published rom-com, The Ex Factor, Ek Confusing Love Story and Death at Arcade Emporia, a children’s book, The Wizard Tales: Adventures of Bun-Bun, and several short stories. A former civil servant, she is an editor and a content management professional by day, and an author by night. She can be found multitasking most of the time. An aficionado of old Hindi cinema, she lives in Gurugram with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 9, 2024
Take a thrilling trip through time with Harini Srinivasan's "Shadows and Secrets," as the Gupta Empire becomes the stage for an enthralling mystery.
From the moment I cracked open the book, I felt myself swept away to the bustling streets of Pataliputra, where the opulence of the empire is overshadowed by a series of gruesome murders. At the heart of the investigation is Mahakavi Kalidasa, the renowned poet-dramatist and head of the state intelligence network. With each turn of the page, I found myself drawn deeper into the labyrinth of secrets and shadows that shroud the city.
Srinivasan's prose is nothing short of enchanting, painting a vivid picture of ancient India with every carefully chosen word. I could practically feel the pulse of the city as Kalidasa and his sharp-witted ally, Shaunaka, navigated its treacherous streets in search of answers.
But what truly sets "Shadows and Secrets" apart is its rich tapestry of characters, each one more intriguing than the last. From the enigmatic Kalidasa to the resourceful Shaunaka, I found myself utterly captivated by their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them every step of the way.
As the plot unfolded, I was gripped by a sense of urgency, desperate to uncover the truth behind the murders that threatened to tear the city apart. Yet amidst the heart-pounding action, Srinivasan skillfully weaves in deeper themes of deception, religious fanaticism, and the weight of centuries-old secrets, leaving me pondering long after I had turned the final page.
Srinivasan's meticulous attention to detail brings the Gupta Empire to life in all its splendor and complexity. From the bustling markets to the opulent palaces, every aspect of ancient Indian society is vividly depicted, offering readers a window into a bygone era.
The characters, too, are brilliantly fleshed out, each with their own motivations and secrets. Kalidasa, with his keen intellect and unwavering dedication to duty, is a compelling protagonist, while Shaunaka's street-smart savvy adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative.
But perhaps what impressed me most about "Shadows and Secrets" is its ability to seamlessly blend history with fiction. Srinivasan's meticulous research is evident on every page, lending the story an air of authenticity that is truly impressive. Whether she's describing the intricacies of Gupta politics or the customs of daily life, she does so with a level of detail that is both informative and engaging.
Of course, no historical thriller would be complete without its fair share of twists and turns, and "Shadows and Secrets" certainly delivers in that regard. Just when I thought I had the mystery figured out, Srinivasan threw in a curveball that left me gasping in surprise.
In the end, "Shadows and Secrets" is a masterfully crafted tale that will transport readers to a world of intrigue and adventure. With its richly drawn characters, immersive setting, and gripping plot, it's a book that is sure to stay with me long after I've turned the final page.
From the moment I cracked open the book, I felt myself swept away to the bustling streets of Pataliputra, where the opulence of the empire is overshadowed by a series of gruesome murders. At the heart of the investigation is Mahakavi Kalidasa, the renowned poet-dramatist and head of the state intelligence network. With each turn of the page, I found myself drawn deeper into the labyrinth of secrets and shadows that shroud the city.
Srinivasan's prose is nothing short of enchanting, painting a vivid picture of ancient India with every carefully chosen word. I could practically feel the pulse of the city as Kalidasa and his sharp-witted ally, Shaunaka, navigated its treacherous streets in search of answers.
But what truly sets "Shadows and Secrets" apart is its rich tapestry of characters, each one more intriguing than the last. From the enigmatic Kalidasa to the resourceful Shaunaka, I found myself utterly captivated by their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them every step of the way.
As the plot unfolded, I was gripped by a sense of urgency, desperate to uncover the truth behind the murders that threatened to tear the city apart. Yet amidst the heart-pounding action, Srinivasan skillfully weaves in deeper themes of deception, religious fanaticism, and the weight of centuries-old secrets, leaving me pondering long after I had turned the final page.
Srinivasan's meticulous attention to detail brings the Gupta Empire to life in all its splendor and complexity. From the bustling markets to the opulent palaces, every aspect of ancient Indian society is vividly depicted, offering readers a window into a bygone era.
The characters, too, are brilliantly fleshed out, each with their own motivations and secrets. Kalidasa, with his keen intellect and unwavering dedication to duty, is a compelling protagonist, while Shaunaka's street-smart savvy adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative.
But perhaps what impressed me most about "Shadows and Secrets" is its ability to seamlessly blend history with fiction. Srinivasan's meticulous research is evident on every page, lending the story an air of authenticity that is truly impressive. Whether she's describing the intricacies of Gupta politics or the customs of daily life, she does so with a level of detail that is both informative and engaging.
Of course, no historical thriller would be complete without its fair share of twists and turns, and "Shadows and Secrets" certainly delivers in that regard. Just when I thought I had the mystery figured out, Srinivasan threw in a curveball that left me gasping in surprise.
In the end, "Shadows and Secrets" is a masterfully crafted tale that will transport readers to a world of intrigue and adventure. With its richly drawn characters, immersive setting, and gripping plot, it's a book that is sure to stay with me long after I've turned the final page.
![Profile Image for Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1716366774i%2F12703387._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 24, 2024
I have a soft spot for historical fiction and was eagerly anticipating diving into this genre once again. This being my second book by the author, I held high expectations, and I'm pleased to say they were met with flying colors.
Set in Pataliputra during the reign of the Gupta Empire, the narrative intricately weaves historical details into the storyline, adding depth and intrigue.
The author's vivid portrayal of the sights and sounds allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the era. Particularly fascinating was the exploration of Manichaeism, a new concept for me, alongside insights into the political, social, and religious landscapes of the time.
The suspenseful plot, filled with murders and cleverly concealed mysteries, kept me engaged until the very end, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way.
Continuing from the previous book, familiar characters seamlessly integrate into this tale, yet this book also stands strong as a standalone piece.
While we've met the characters previously in the book, Kalidasa and Shaunaka particularly capture my attention. Kalidasa, renowned for his poetic brilliance, takes on the role of a spymaster. The author’s narrative convincingly portrays his adeptness in espionage alongside his poetic talents. Shaunaka, another character, defies initial expectations but later reveals remarkable resourcefulness in his actions. Reading these unexpected facets of both characters left a lasting impression, and brought out the author's ability to craft multifaceted and compelling personas.
The inclusion of a Dramatis Personae and glossary enhances the reading experience, while the beautiful cover art complements the captivating storyline.
Overall, this is a 4-star read that will undoubtedly satisfy fans of both historical and fiction genres.
Set in Pataliputra during the reign of the Gupta Empire, the narrative intricately weaves historical details into the storyline, adding depth and intrigue.
The author's vivid portrayal of the sights and sounds allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the era. Particularly fascinating was the exploration of Manichaeism, a new concept for me, alongside insights into the political, social, and religious landscapes of the time.
The suspenseful plot, filled with murders and cleverly concealed mysteries, kept me engaged until the very end, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way.
Continuing from the previous book, familiar characters seamlessly integrate into this tale, yet this book also stands strong as a standalone piece.
While we've met the characters previously in the book, Kalidasa and Shaunaka particularly capture my attention. Kalidasa, renowned for his poetic brilliance, takes on the role of a spymaster. The author’s narrative convincingly portrays his adeptness in espionage alongside his poetic talents. Shaunaka, another character, defies initial expectations but later reveals remarkable resourcefulness in his actions. Reading these unexpected facets of both characters left a lasting impression, and brought out the author's ability to craft multifaceted and compelling personas.
The inclusion of a Dramatis Personae and glossary enhances the reading experience, while the beautiful cover art complements the captivating storyline.
Overall, this is a 4-star read that will undoubtedly satisfy fans of both historical and fiction genres.
March 12, 2024
"Shadows & Secrets" is an enthralling investigation into a past era that combines historical fiction with suspense.
The story begins with horrific killings that mix celebrities and foreign victims, raising questions about the killer's intentions and possible victims. Leading the inquiry is Mahakavi Kalidasa, a distinguished poet and intelligence chief, who works with his undercover operative, Shaunaka.
Against the backdrop of the height of the Gupta Empire, during the reign of Maharaja Chandragupta II Vikramaditya, the author skillfully transports readers to the historical setting, creating an intense feeling of being in Pataliputra.
I became engulfed from the very end by the complex network of killings and a long-kept secret. With his intelligence and unwavering sense of duty, Kalidasa is a compelling protagonist who is further enhanced by Shaunaka's streetwise wit, which adds another level of interest.
The most notable aspect of "Shadows and Secrets" is how well history and fiction are woven together. Every page of Srinivasan's work is imbued with an astounding authenticity resulting from his thorough investigation.
The suspenseful plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they wonder who the murderer is and what their ultimate goal is. The intricate depiction of life during the Gupta Empire takes readers to ancient Pataliputra.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with suspense will be delighted by the riveting mystery, vivid historical setting, and strong characters in this book.
The story begins with horrific killings that mix celebrities and foreign victims, raising questions about the killer's intentions and possible victims. Leading the inquiry is Mahakavi Kalidasa, a distinguished poet and intelligence chief, who works with his undercover operative, Shaunaka.
Against the backdrop of the height of the Gupta Empire, during the reign of Maharaja Chandragupta II Vikramaditya, the author skillfully transports readers to the historical setting, creating an intense feeling of being in Pataliputra.
I became engulfed from the very end by the complex network of killings and a long-kept secret. With his intelligence and unwavering sense of duty, Kalidasa is a compelling protagonist who is further enhanced by Shaunaka's streetwise wit, which adds another level of interest.
The most notable aspect of "Shadows and Secrets" is how well history and fiction are woven together. Every page of Srinivasan's work is imbued with an astounding authenticity resulting from his thorough investigation.
The suspenseful plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they wonder who the murderer is and what their ultimate goal is. The intricate depiction of life during the Gupta Empire takes readers to ancient Pataliputra.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with suspense will be delighted by the riveting mystery, vivid historical setting, and strong characters in this book.
March 25, 2024
This book was a first-of-its kind experience for me. The drama, political intrigue and missing clue pieces fell together to give this intense read.
The author narrates a unique tale involving unlikely characters in this epic drama set in the Gupta Age of India history. Vivaciously peppered with Sanskrit terms to reflect the lifestyle of that era, reading this book was quite immersive.
The place of particular events is the title of each chapter, which sends a pretext for the readers as to what to expect. The acute imagination of the culture, the tradition and the behaviour of people from different walks of life from a different era altogether, is an amazing feat accomplished by the author.
While getting into the language of the book was a little strenuous on my part, the sections of 'Dramatis personae' & the glossary came real handy to get the references. Still, I suggest the readers have a mini dictionary by their side to understand the elegant terms used.
The plot itself is very engaging, as the events logically unfurl to give an exciting climax, while the ending also leaves an outlet for development of sequels, perhaps.
The main character(s) are really smart & perceptive & you find yourself nodding at their reasoning.
I liked the humility and sensibility of people of that time, who paid due respect to their deities, elders & to each other, and think our current youth will benefit to emulate thoughtfulness in their daily lives.
It was a enjoyable read for me and I recommend this to readers of thriller & historical fiction.
The author narrates a unique tale involving unlikely characters in this epic drama set in the Gupta Age of India history. Vivaciously peppered with Sanskrit terms to reflect the lifestyle of that era, reading this book was quite immersive.
The place of particular events is the title of each chapter, which sends a pretext for the readers as to what to expect. The acute imagination of the culture, the tradition and the behaviour of people from different walks of life from a different era altogether, is an amazing feat accomplished by the author.
While getting into the language of the book was a little strenuous on my part, the sections of 'Dramatis personae' & the glossary came real handy to get the references. Still, I suggest the readers have a mini dictionary by their side to understand the elegant terms used.
The plot itself is very engaging, as the events logically unfurl to give an exciting climax, while the ending also leaves an outlet for development of sequels, perhaps.
The main character(s) are really smart & perceptive & you find yourself nodding at their reasoning.
I liked the humility and sensibility of people of that time, who paid due respect to their deities, elders & to each other, and think our current youth will benefit to emulate thoughtfulness in their daily lives.
It was a enjoyable read for me and I recommend this to readers of thriller & historical fiction.
March 31, 2024
Shadows and Secrets: A scintillating secret hidden in the shadows of time.
Shadows and Secrets, authored by Harini Sreenivasan, is a gripping thriller! While it may have a slow start, as the story progresses, it unravels different layers of significant characters, whether it be the great Mahakavi Kalidasa or his close aide, Saunaka. As someone with a deep interest in history, I appreciate Harini Sreenivasan for choosing to write about a tale around the Gupta dynasty period, unlike the more commonly explored Mughal era.
When I began reading the book, I could imagine the great city; that's how much attention to detail the author has focused on. The story also takes us on a tour of the great city of Patliputra, which serves as the epicenter of the narrative. I admire the way the author allows each character space to develop individually, rather than introducing them all at once or in close succession.
The emotions of parents letting go of their children on a dangerous venture, the clever Grandmother (Pitamahi) Ahalya, and the incidents that occur throughout their journey are so descriptive and realistic that you feel as though you are right there with them.
The introduction of Chandrika, the encounters with the Mlechhas, the Romakas or the Romans, the unexpected twists and turns and unveiling Easter eggs from time to time, keep us glued to the book.
Overall, I found this book to be a captivating read and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a thrilling adventure through time
Shadows and Secrets, authored by Harini Sreenivasan, is a gripping thriller! While it may have a slow start, as the story progresses, it unravels different layers of significant characters, whether it be the great Mahakavi Kalidasa or his close aide, Saunaka. As someone with a deep interest in history, I appreciate Harini Sreenivasan for choosing to write about a tale around the Gupta dynasty period, unlike the more commonly explored Mughal era.
When I began reading the book, I could imagine the great city; that's how much attention to detail the author has focused on. The story also takes us on a tour of the great city of Patliputra, which serves as the epicenter of the narrative. I admire the way the author allows each character space to develop individually, rather than introducing them all at once or in close succession.
The emotions of parents letting go of their children on a dangerous venture, the clever Grandmother (Pitamahi) Ahalya, and the incidents that occur throughout their journey are so descriptive and realistic that you feel as though you are right there with them.
The introduction of Chandrika, the encounters with the Mlechhas, the Romakas or the Romans, the unexpected twists and turns and unveiling Easter eggs from time to time, keep us glued to the book.
Overall, I found this book to be a captivating read and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a thrilling adventure through time
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
Shadows and Secrets: The Pataliputra Conspiracy book by Harini Srinivasan is a gripping historical fiction book that takes place during the Gupta dynasty, sometimes known as the "golden era." The unfolding story and its theme take place in the vibrant metropolis of Pataliputra and center on a string of enigmatic killings that pose a danger to the stability of the monarchy of Maharajadhiraja Chandragupta II Vikramaditya.
tropes:
- historical mystery
- race against time
- hidden past
- India’s history
- series of murders
- renowned poet
The author weaves in intriguing aspects of the Gupta dynasty, including the presence of foreign visitors, a famous poet, and the heightening escalations of religious and political strife. The murders investigation is seen as led by Mahakavi Kalidasa, the head of the state intelligence network and a renowned poet. To assist him in investigating the mystery, Kalidasa enlists the help of Shaunaka, a smart and resourceful young spy.
Despite being quite young, Shaunaka’s character is a skilled observer with a keen eye for detail. I absolutely loved Shaunaka's grandmother, Ahalya. She offered advice and support to Shaunaka and Ashwini, a mischievous boy who accompanies Shaunaka to Patliputra. Another courageous character whom I loved reading about is Chandrika. She becomes involved in the investigation after her sister is murdered. It was as if I was working with the characters in ancient India.
This book is a thrilling read that blends historical details with a suspenseful plot. This book is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a strong murder mystery element.
tropes:
- historical mystery
- race against time
- hidden past
- India’s history
- series of murders
- renowned poet
The author weaves in intriguing aspects of the Gupta dynasty, including the presence of foreign visitors, a famous poet, and the heightening escalations of religious and political strife. The murders investigation is seen as led by Mahakavi Kalidasa, the head of the state intelligence network and a renowned poet. To assist him in investigating the mystery, Kalidasa enlists the help of Shaunaka, a smart and resourceful young spy.
Despite being quite young, Shaunaka’s character is a skilled observer with a keen eye for detail. I absolutely loved Shaunaka's grandmother, Ahalya. She offered advice and support to Shaunaka and Ashwini, a mischievous boy who accompanies Shaunaka to Patliputra. Another courageous character whom I loved reading about is Chandrika. She becomes involved in the investigation after her sister is murdered. It was as if I was working with the characters in ancient India.
This book is a thrilling read that blends historical details with a suspenseful plot. This book is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a strong murder mystery element.
March 10, 2024
Shadows & Secrets by Harini Srinivasan takes readers on an enthralling journey into the heart of the Gupta Empire, rested within the vibrant city of Pataliputra. In this tale, a series of brutal murders cast a shadow over societal stability, prompting renowned poet and intelligence head Kalidasa to spearhead the investigation. Alongside him is the sharp-minded Shaunaka an unofficial spy whose insights prove invaluable. Srinivasan's narrative seamlessly weaves historical intricacies with thrilling elements offering readers a vivid portrayal of ancient India's culture and complexities.
The characters notably Kalidasa and Shaunaka were carefully crafted depth that enriches the storyline. As the plot unfolds, it lets you immerse in a mystery, where historical detail paints a vivid backdrop against which the mystery unravels. While some threads may remain unresolved eventually, the journey itself proves a alluring exploration of both suspense and historical splendor.
As a history enthusiast, I found "Shadows & Secrets" to be a gratifying read, blending suspense with profound insights into the era's nuances. Srinivasan's skillful storytelling and interesting characters make the book a must-read for anyone fascinated by history's mysterious charm and the complexities of human nature.
The characters notably Kalidasa and Shaunaka were carefully crafted depth that enriches the storyline. As the plot unfolds, it lets you immerse in a mystery, where historical detail paints a vivid backdrop against which the mystery unravels. While some threads may remain unresolved eventually, the journey itself proves a alluring exploration of both suspense and historical splendor.
As a history enthusiast, I found "Shadows & Secrets" to be a gratifying read, blending suspense with profound insights into the era's nuances. Srinivasan's skillful storytelling and interesting characters make the book a must-read for anyone fascinated by history's mysterious charm and the complexities of human nature.
March 29, 2024
When I read "The Curse of Anuganga" by Harini Srinivasan, I knew that she wrote the best historical fiction, so when "Shadows and Secrets" dropped I wanted to be the first one to grab the opportunity to read this. Took my time to read it.
"Shadows and Secrets" by Harini Srinivasan takes you back to ancient India during the Gupta Empire. It's a mix of mystery, excitement, and stories from history. The book is set in the amazing city of Pataliputra. It shows you a time when there were a lot of political tricks, rich culture, and smart thinking.
The characters in the book are well thought out and have many layers to them. Each character has their own reasons for doing things and keeps secrets. Kalidasa is shown as a complex and mysterious person who has to balance being a poet and a spymaster.
Harini Srinivasan skillfully brings readers to the lively city of Pataliputra with her remarkable writing. Her careful attention to detail and thorough research shines through every page, enriching the story with authenticity. "Shadows and Secrets: The Pataliputra Conspiracy" is a captivating mix of history, politics, and mystery, sure to captivate fans of historical fiction, mystery, and thrillers alike.
"Shadows and Secrets" by Harini Srinivasan takes you back to ancient India during the Gupta Empire. It's a mix of mystery, excitement, and stories from history. The book is set in the amazing city of Pataliputra. It shows you a time when there were a lot of political tricks, rich culture, and smart thinking.
The characters in the book are well thought out and have many layers to them. Each character has their own reasons for doing things and keeps secrets. Kalidasa is shown as a complex and mysterious person who has to balance being a poet and a spymaster.
Harini Srinivasan skillfully brings readers to the lively city of Pataliputra with her remarkable writing. Her careful attention to detail and thorough research shines through every page, enriching the story with authenticity. "Shadows and Secrets: The Pataliputra Conspiracy" is a captivating mix of history, politics, and mystery, sure to captivate fans of historical fiction, mystery, and thrillers alike.
Read
March 26, 2024Perfect blending of historical fiction with murder mystery. Really loved how the plot was formed while delving deep into the rich history of India in the post-Samudragupta era.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews